Camp Bullseye, a collaboration between USF and the City of St. Petersburg, offers middle schoolers a hands-on experience in marine science, entrepreneurship, and digital marketing. Apply for the camp by April 30, 2025, to join us from July 7-11 for a 5-day, 4-night residential experience.
Throughout the program, students will explore marine science, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship—three fields that play a vital role in the St. Petersburg area. Through hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, participants will work to address a local marine science issue, applying entrepreneurial thinking and digital storytelling to develop innovative solutions.
This initiative aligns with Mayor Ken Welch’s ‘Education & Youth Opportunities’ Pillar for Progress by fostering education, economic opportunity, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that St. Pete’s next generation is equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation and sustainability in our community.
Camp Bullseye Details
Director: Angeline Taylor, Colbi Gemmell, Frank Nunez, and Savanna Finley
Location: USF St. Petersburg
Grade Levels: For students entering 7th or 8th grade
Format: Residential Summer Camp
Cost: $25
| Dates | Schools Offered | Application |
|---|---|---|
| July 7th - 11th, 2025 |
Bay Point Middle School John Hopkins Middle School James B. Sandlerin K-8 Meadowlawn Middle School Thurgood Middle Middle School Tyrone Middle School |
What to Expect
Daytime Activities
Becoming a USF Bull: Target your Future
Your camper will get a true college experience at USF St. Petersburg! From staying in residence halls to exploring academic programs, admissions, financial literacy, and aptitude and career placement. They will gain the confidence and knowledge to take their next steps toward higher education and beyond.
Marine Innovators: Tackling St. Pete’s Coastal Challenges
Campers will tackle a local marine science issue by developing a product, innovation, or application. With access to St. Pete’s coastal resources and the Florida Institute of Oceanography, they’ll explore marine biology and conservation in action.
Entrepreneurship: Innovate, Create, Elevate
Future leaders will develop an entrepreneurial mindset by designing, marketing, and pitching their own projects. Through teamwork and mentorship, they’ll gain business skills, creative problem-solving techniques, and the confidence to turn ideas into reality.
Digital Marketing: From Ideas to Impact
Campers will learn how to craft compelling content, build a brand, and market their own innovations. Through storytelling, social media strategy, and data-driven decision-making, they’ll discover how to turn ideas into powerful campaigns that influence and inspire.
Evening Experiences
Campus Cravings: Mealtime at USF
USF Dining Halls offer unlimited servings from various stations featuring fresh, exhibition-style cooking. Stations may include options like salads, grilled items, energy-packed meals, international cuisine, and comfort food, providing something for everyone!
Murals & Movement: St. Pete Tour
Campers will join USF's Daniel Wood for a mural tour around St. Pete! Hop on the Bull Runner to explore the city's vibrant street art and discover the stories behind each masterpiece.
Clay, Creatures, and Conservation
Campers will explore The Clay Co-Op, a local St. Pete ceramic studio, where kids will learn about clay, 3D printing, and USF’s oyster bed project—plus, create their own USF Bull or St. Pete Pelican!
Live the Bull Life: College Edition
Campers will stay in Ibis Hall at USF St. Petersburg, experiencing college life firsthand! From dorm living to shared spaces, they’ll get a glimpse of campus independence while building friendships and learning responsibility in a fun, supportive environment.
Useful Information
General Information & Eligibility
What is Camp Bullseye?
Camp Bullseye is a week-long residential summer camp for rising 7th-8th grade students from eligible Pinellas County Public Schools. Hosted at the USF St. Petersburg campus in partnership with the City of St. Petersburg’s Education and Youth Opportunities Department, the program offers an immersive learning experience.
When and where does Camp Bullseye take place?
The camp runs from July 7-11, 2025, at the USF St. Petersburg campus. Students will stay on campus for the entire duration of the program.
Who can apply for this camp?
This camp is open to students who have just finished 6th or 7th grade and are from one of the following schools:
- John Hopkins Middle School
- Bay Point Middle School
- Meadowlawn Middle School
- James B. Sanderlin K-8
- Thurgood Marshall Middle School
- Tyrone Middle School
Application Process
How do I apply for the camp?
To apply for Camp Bullseye, students must submit a completed application by April 30th, 2025. The application will open on March 31st, 2025 and must be filled out by both the student and their parent before registration.
There are two ways to apply:
- Digital Application: A digital copy is available above to complete and submit online.
- Hard Copy Application: Printed applications can be completed and turned in at one
of the following locations:
- Campbell Recreation Center – 601 14th St. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
- Roberts Recreation Center – 1246 50th Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33703
- Your School: You may also submit your completed application directly to your school.
What are the requirements to apply?
- Attend an eligible Pinellas County Public School
- Be a rising 7th or rising 8th grader
- Submit a completed application
- Submit a short-answer response or personal statement explaining their interest in the program
- Ensure all materials are submitted by April 30th, 2025
- Optional: Provide a teacher recommendation highlighting their character, leadership potential, and enthusiasm for learning
When will decisions be made?
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by May 15th.
Cost & Sponsorship
How much does the camp cost?
The cost of the camp is $25 per camper, as it is generously sponsored by the City of St. Petersburg.
Meals and Activities
What meals are provided?
Beginning with lunch on Monday, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—will be provided at USF Dining Halls. Since your child's day camp may vary in location, the dining hall they will visit will also vary. We suggest that if there are specific snacks your child would like to bring, they can store them in the dorm room for easy access.
What nightly activities will the campers be doing?
We are still in the process of finalizing the nightly activities for campers. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the camp dates!
Accomodations and Supervision
Where will campers stay during Camp Bullseye
Campers will stay at the Ibis Hall on the USF St. Petersburg campus, located at 200 6th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.
What is the camper to staff ratio?
Our camper to staff ratio is 1:10, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and care throughout their stay.
How will you ensure the safety and security of the campers?
We take security very seriously. We will have hired security staff present overnight to ensure the safety of the campers while they sleep at the USF dorms. Additionally, USF Youth Experiences staff will always be present and actively supervising the campers throughout the entire camp.
Logistics
What is the check-in and check-out process?
- Check-in for Camp Bullseye will be on Monday, July 7th. Please arrive at the University Student Center, located at 200 6th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, between 7:45 AM and 8:15 AM. Upon arrival, park in the Parking Lot 2, and our staff will guide you to the residence hall for check-in.
- Check-out day will be on Friday, July 11th. Please arrive at the University Student Center, 200 6th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Parents should plan to park in Parking Lot 2 and assist their child with the move-out process.
What should campers pack?
We have prepared a list of items to assist you in packing for the Camp Bullseye residential experience. Please see the list below for items you should bring:
- Clothing Items (Required)Underclothes
- Pajamas
- Comfortable shoes
- Clothes hangers
- Bathroom Items (Required)Bath Towels/Wash clothes
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, comb, brush. Shaving needs, etc.)
- Bedroom Items (Required)Pillows/Pillow cases
- Bed sheets/Blanket (twin XL size)
- Personal items (laptop, cell phone, assistive devices, etc.)
- Any medications you might need, both prescription and over the counter.
Miscellaneous
How can I contact my child during Camp Bullseye?
To contact your child during Camp Bullseye, we encourage you to reach out to them directly on their personal phone. Additionally, we will provide the phone numbers of the overnight counselors working that week. If you need to get in touch with a counselor or have any urgent concerns, please call our office at 813-974-3355, and we will assist you.
What happens if a camper becomes sick or injured?
If a camper becomes sick or injured during Camp Bullseye, our first priority is their health and well-being. We have trained staff and counselors who are prepared to handle minor illnesses and injuries. For any medical concerns, the camper will be taken to the appropriate medical facility or USF Health Services if necessary. Parents/guardians will be promptly contacted in the event of a serious illness or injury. We will work closely with healthcare providers to ensure the camper receives the care they need.
Can campers leave the program early?
Campers may leave Camp Bullseye program early only with prior approval from the USF Office of Youth Experiences. If a camper needs to leave early due to illness, family emergency, or other extenuating circumstances, parents/guardians must contact the program staff to make arrangements. Proper documentation and coordination will be required to ensure the camper’s safe departure from the program.
Who can I contact with additional questions?
For additional questions, please contact the USF Office of Youth Experiences at 813-974-3355 or email us at youthxp@usf.edu. Our team is happy to assist you with any inquiries.
Special Thanks to our Partners
